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CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming's unemployment rate fell in September for the second consecutive month.
The Casper Star-Tribune reports (http://bit.ly/2e99gh6 ) that federal statistics show the state's jobless rate was 5.3 percent last month, down from 5.5 percent in August and 5.7 percent in July.
State economist David Bullard says an increased rig count and rising oil prices could've led energy companies to hire more workers during those months.
But the drop in unemployment could also be attributed to workers leaving the state. Bullard cited economic growth in neighboring states such as Colorado, Utah and Idaho as an incentive for Wyoming workers to move.
Although fewer residents are unemployed, the state still faces financial trouble because of dwindling energy revenues.
Gov. Matt Mead is encouraging lawmakers to draw from the state's $1.5 billion rainy day fund to make up for the shortfalls.
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Information from: Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune, http://www.trib.com
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